Tickets may also be purchased at the Angela Hospice Care Center, or by calling toll free 866.464.7810

No one really wants to think about getting a serious illness. And yet, if that day should come, having a living will could mean you’d get the care you want, and your family wouldn’t have to face the stress and conflict that could arise from not knowing your wishes in advance. That’s the idea behind the Five Wishes document. In just ten pages, written out in simple language, this this pamphlet helps you dictate the care you’d like to receive should you become unable to communicate. It is valid in most states, including Michigan, and it’s an important consideration – especially for the “sandwich generation.” “We are now caring for our elderly parents, so we know how difficult it is,” said Lillian Durham, sharing her thoughts in a discussion group. “I don’t want my kids to have to worry about that stuff.” Angela Hospice is holding seminars on the Five Wishes, which include a free copy of the Five Wishes booklet, on National Healthcare Decisions Day, Tuesday, April 16 . Joi

Angela Hospice hosted an enlightening in-service for healthcare professionals last week with education provided by Balanced Home Care . This "Virtual Dementia" in-service included a presentation on the signs, symptoms, and progression of dementia, as well as providing the opportunity to undergo a virtual reality simulation. Participants were asked to perform a variety of simple tasks while wearing a simulator that affected their vision, hearing, and sense of balance, to mimic what it is like to have dementia. The idea was to instill "empathy, not sympathy" in participants. Experiencing a firsthand glimpse of the challenges faced by those with dementia can create a greater understanding for healthcare workers and help them to better meet the needs of patients with dementia. "It was really incredible to be able to imagine what it's like to be in someone's shoes who struggles with dementia," said one participant. "It made me way more empa